Melica californica - California Melic

Melica californica, known by the common name California Melicgrass, is a species in the Poaceae (Grass) family. It is native to Oregon and California, where it grows in many types of habitats, from mountain forests to open grassland at sea level. In California it is found primarily in the Coast Ranges and Sierra foothills. California Melicgrass is a perennial grass, generally with rhizomes, producing a dense cluster of stems up to about 4 ft. (1.3 meters) in maximum height. The flower cluster is a narrow series of purple-banded green spikelets. The flower clusters are attractive even after this grass has gone dormant in late summer or fall. In cultivation it performs best in part shade with low to moderate water. From Calscape.

Grower: Heritage Growers

Other Names Used: California Melicgrass

Family: Poaaceae

Life Cycle: Perennial

Plant Type: Grass

Sun Exposure: Full, Partial

Bloom Period: Summer (June to August)

Bloom Color(s): Yellow

Plant Height: 1-4 feet tall

Plant Width: 1 foot wide

California Regions:

• San Francisco Bay Area
• North Coast
• Central Valley
• Sierra Foothills
• Sierra Nevada
• Central California Coast

Ecological Benefits:

• Drought Tolerant
  
• Deer Resistant
• Attracts pollinators, birds, wildlife
  

Ecological Functions:

• Grows in Containers
• Lawn Alternative

Habitat Type:

• Chaparral
• Coastal Grassland
• Valley Grassland
• Mixed Evergreen Forest
• Redwood Forest

Human Uses/Cautions: Medicinal, Basketry

Skill Level: Beginner

Seed Pretreatment: None